The thesis is an extensive original research paper that should result in a significant contribution to new knowledge. It demonstrates the ability to conceive and develop a research problem; to express it theoretically; to develop alternative methods for testing logically generated hypotheses; to gather, compile and statistically analyze data; to make rational decisions regarding the resolution of the research problem; and to make recommendations for future research. Ordinarily, the thesis is oriented toward original research, data gathering with statistical analysis, theory testing, and theory building. If the research involves human subjects, the student must obtain approval from the Institutional Review Board.
Another type of thesis may involve original critical work on a particular topic: historical period, literary work, etc. Under certain circumstances, extensive use of library materials or secondary research sources may meet the research requirement for the thesis. In certain academic areas, creative projects may also be acceptable as long as they meet program requirements and are approved by the student's examining committee and the Graduate Dean.
Any thesis that is not text based (for example, an art portfolio or a computer software project) should be accompanied by documents that evaluate the process and outcome of the project (influences, methodology, program notes etc.), using whatever information is appropriate to the discipline.
A thesis proposal should be approved before data collection is started. This proposal requires acceptance and endorsement by the student's examining committee. It is not required that the thesis proposal is approved by the College of Graduate Studies and Research.
An abstract of the thesis is required. It shall be inserted in the thesis immediately preceding the table of contents. It does not require a page number and it is not counted when numbering the pages of the thesis. The abstract should be no more than 350 words in length and include the following: title of thesis, name of author, degree program involved, name and location of the University, year, statement of problem, procedure (methods employed), findings (conclusions). On the initiative of the student, a copy of the thesis abstract may be submitted for inclusion in University Microfilms International at Ann Arbor, Michigan.
A final oral comprehensive examination, often referred to as a thesis defense, must be successfully completed. The student's examining committee sets the date, time and place for this examination. All members of the examining committee should be given copies of the thesis with sufficient time prior to the oral examination to review the paper. Only after the candidate passes the oral examination and if the paper meets acceptable standards of quality should the committee sign the endorsement/acceptance page of the thesis. Only if the candidate has met all degree requirements to the satisfaction of the committee should they sign the form Recommendation for Awarding the Degree.
Students preparing a thesis must work closely with their advisor and other examining committee members at all stages of development. All work must meet acceptable standards of quality in both content and form before being approved by the student's examining committee and the Graduate Dean. Please see Research Involving Participants or Animals and Institutional Review Board concerning research involving human subjects and Format and Style Guidelines for additional information concerning the master's thesis.
